Comfort in a Bowl: Easy Suji Halwa

Suji Halwa, also known as Rava Sheera, is a quintessential sweet dish that evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. It's often prepared for breakfast, as a quick dessert, or as 'prasad' (a religious offering). Its beauty lies in its simplicity—just a few ingredients transforming into a heartwarming, fragrant delight. The secret to a truly divine Suji Halwa is undoubtedly the quality of the Nava Durga Ghee, which lends it a rich, nutty aroma.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Suji (Semolina/Rava), fine variety preferred
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 cup Nava Durga Pure Ghee
• 3 cups Water (or 2 cups water and 1 cup Nava Durga Milk for extra richness)
• 1/4 cup mixed nuts (cashews, almonds), chopped
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder
• A few strands of Saffron (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water (and milk, if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. If using saffron, add it to the syrup. Keep this syrup on a low flame to ensure it stays hot.
2. Roast the Suji: In a separate heavy-bottomed pan (kadhai), melt the ghee over medium heat. Add the suji. Now, begin roasting the suji, stirring continuously. This step is crucial. Roast for about 8-10 minutes until the suji turns a light golden brown and releases a beautiful, nutty aroma. The ghee will start to separate from the suji.
3. Fry the Nuts: Add the chopped cashews and almonds to the roasting suji and continue to sauté for another 2 minutes until the nuts are lightly toasted.
4. Combine with Care: Now, very carefully, pour the hot sugar syrup into the roasted suji mixture. The mixture will splutter violently, so stand back and pour slowly and steadily.
5. Whisk to Perfection: Immediately begin stirring vigorously with a whisk or spatula to ensure no lumps are formed. The suji will absorb the liquid very quickly.
6. Final Cook: Lower the heat, add the raisins and cardamom powder. Continue to cook, stirring, until the halwa thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, forming a glossy, cohesive mass.

Serving and Storage

Serve the Suji Halwa warm, garnished with a few extra chopped nuts. It's a perfect dessert on its own. Leftover halwa can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. To reheat, simply microwave it for a few seconds or warm it in a pan with a little bit of ghee or milk.